Sail raft - convertible inflatable life raft

Abstract

The self-inflating convertible life raft may be launched from a distressed ship or a downed aircraft. Suspended from the sides of the hull are uniquely positioned anti-capsize water ballast bags which are fully retractable to allow for life raft maneuverability. In order to convert the life raft into an effective sailing boat; the mast, sails, lee board, and tiller-rudder assembly are stowed inside a standard-sized lift raft cannister or valise. This easily assembled gear allows the user to effect self-rescue by sailing the life raft to a chosen destination.

I claim: 
     
       1. A life raft comprising: an inflatable hull; a mast; means for removably supporting the mast in the hull; at least one sail supported by said mast; a tiller/rudder assembly; and means for removably mounting the tiller/rudder assembly to the hull; a lee board/weather jack assembly; and means for removably mounting the lee board/weather jack to the hull, which includes at least one self-filling water ballast bag retractably secured to the side of the hull so the bag can be retracted for sailing and movement of the boat or lowered for stabilizing the boat.